In front of a background in the shape of Africa and representing the South African National flag is a graphic figure similar to those in San Rock paintings. The ball that the figure is kicking in an upward direction, can be interpreted as inviting other nations to Africa to participate in this momentous event.
ZA is the international symbol for South Africa (from the Dutch ‘Zuid-Afrika’) and Kumi means 10 in many African langauges. Zakumi, the self-assured leopard has an irresistible charm and zest for life. He likes to make new friends. Soccer is his favorite sport as its universality crosses all barriers.
The Slogan – KeNako – ‘it’s time’.
This refers to the concept that it is time for the people of Africa to be giventhe opportunity to showcase their feelings of warmth and inclusiveness.
The official match ball is called Jabulani, an isiZulu word meaning ‘to celebrate’. Jabulani features an impressive 11 colors chosen for the 11 players that will take to the field each game and the 11 official langauges of South Africa, spoken by 11 tribes which make South Africa so culturally diverse. The designs represents the outer facade of Johannesburg’s Soccer City where the World Cup final will take place.
The Poster
This poster depicts the continent of Africa as the profile of a man heading a soccer ball. The profile is that of Samuel Eto’o – a champion soccer player from Cameroon. The FIFA website describes the poster as follows: “It is symbolic of the relationship between football and Africa and captures a sense of exitement, awe and inspiration. It also reflects the positive impact that the World Cup will have on Africa.”
The Official Video
Did you know?
- The vuvuzela, a plastic blowing horn about a meter long, is said to have been adapted by well-known Kaizer Chiefs FC fan Freddie “Saddam” Maake from a bicycle horn and a pipe. This original tin or aluminum version became popular in South Arica in the 1990′s, but authorities later ruled it out as a dangerous weapon which promted Maake to find a plastic company that could manufacture it. In 2001, South Africa-based company Masincedane Sport began to mass-produce a plastic version.
